Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Sedan
Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda 626.
Key Features Vehicle:
Affordable, comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class, available V6 engine for improved performance.
Key Features Manual:
Highly detailed, covers all major repair and maintenance aspects, includes hundreds of pages with tables and diagrams, designed for DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Covered Years:
1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000
Page Count Estimated:
Hundreds (specific count not provided in product info)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul procedures, component testing, timing belt/chain service, cooling system, lubrication system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection systems (MPI), ignition system diagnosis, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EGR), turbocharger systems (if applicable).
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair of manual transmissions, clutch system, gear shift linkage.
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair of automatic transmissions, valve body diagnosis, torque converter, transmission fluid and filter changes.
Brakes:
Disc and drum brake systems, ABS diagnosis and repair, hydraulic system service, brake fluid specifications.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints), alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, tie rod ends.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, power windows, door locks, instrument cluster.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, component replacement.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, door assembly, interior trim, seat removal, glass replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault code interpretation, using diagnostic tools.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing key components such as alternators, starters, fuel pumps, radiators, water pumps, CV axles.
Rebuilding Overhaul:
In-depth procedures for engine and transmission rebuilding, including torque specifications and clearances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics).
Engine Code 1:
2.0L SOHC I4 (Engine ID: 420A)
Displacement 1:
1996 cc (121.8 cu. in.)
Horsepower 1:
114 hp @ 5200 rpm (approximate)
Torque 1:
130 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approximate)
Engine Code 2:
2.4L DOHC I4 (Engine ID: EDZ)
Displacement 2:
2429 cc (148.2 cu. in.)
Horsepower 2:
145 hp @ 5800 rpm (approximate)
Torque 2:
155 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approximate)
Engine Code 3:
2.5L SOHC V6 (Engine ID: 6G73)
Displacement 3:
2497 cc (152.4 cu. in.)
Horsepower 3:
170 hp @ 6250 rpm (approximate)
Torque 3:
174 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Acceptable (for specific model years, varies)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Acceptable (for specific model years, varies)
ABS:
Optional on lower trims, standard on some higher trims/later years.
Airbags Front:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts in all seating positions.
Oil Change Interval Gas:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Spark Plug Replacement I4:
Approx. 100,000 miles (platinum-tipped)
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles (platinum-tipped)
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher, synthetic blend recommended)
Engine Coolant Spec:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Prediluted 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar) or equivalent.
Common Issue 1:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early 2.0L engines).
Common Issue 2:
Automatic transmission internal failures or shifting issues.
Common Issue 3:
Front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).
Common Issue 4:
CV axle boot failures leading to axle damage.
Common Issue 5:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure.
Brand History Context:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history of producing robust and often performance-oriented vehicles, including muscle cars and family sedans.
Stratus Generation:
This manual covers the second generation Stratus (1995-2000), which was a significant redesign from the first generation and moved to the Chrysler JA platform, sharing components with the Chrysler Cirrus and Sebring coupe/convertible.
Production Years Model:
1995-2006 (globally, with variations and platform changes)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.